Unlocking Linguistic Horizons: Mastering the Art of Describing a Language You Aspire to Learn in IELTS Speaking

The IELTS Speaking test often includes topics that allow candidates to showcase their ability to express personal interests and aspirations. One such recurring theme is describing a language you would like to learn. This topic not only assesses your linguistic prowess but also provides insight into your cultural awareness and learning motivation. Let’s explore how to excel in this speaking task and impress the examiner with your response.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about languages and learning. Here are some common questions you might encounter:

1. Do you speak any foreign languages?
2. What languages are popular in your country?
3. Do you think it’s important to learn foreign languages? Why?

Let’s focus on question 3 and provide a sample answer:

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“Absolutely, I believe learning foreign languages is crucial in today’s globalized world. It not only enhances communication across cultures but also broadens one’s perspective on different ways of thinking. Moreover, being multilingual can significantly boost career prospects, especially in international business or diplomacy. Personally, I find that studying a new language stimulates cognitive abilities and fosters creativity, making it a rewarding intellectual pursuit.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Now, let’s move on to the main task. Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a language you would like to learn:

Describe a language you would like to learn

You should say:
- What the language is
- Why you want to learn it
- How you plan to learn it
- And explain how learning this language might benefit you in the future

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

“I’ve always been fascinated by Spanish, and it’s a language I’d really like to learn. I think it’s such a beautiful and expressive language. My interest in Spanish started when I watched some Spanish movies with subtitles, and I loved how it sounded.

The main reason I want to learn Spanish is because it’s spoken in so many countries. It would be great for traveling and meeting new people. Also, I’ve heard that Spanish literature is amazing, so I’d love to be able to read books in their original language.

To learn Spanish, I plan to use a combination of methods. I’ll start with some language learning apps on my phone, which are convenient for daily practice. Then, I might take some online courses or join a local language school. I also want to find a language exchange partner to practice speaking with.

Learning Spanish could really help me in the future. It might open up job opportunities, especially in companies that do business with Spanish-speaking countries. It would also make traveling to Spain or Latin America much more enjoyable and immersive. Overall, I think knowing Spanish would enrich my life in many ways.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’m particularly keen on learning Mandarin Chinese, as it’s not only the most widely spoken language globally but also a gateway to understanding one of the world’s oldest and richest cultures. My fascination with Mandarin stems from its tonal nature and intricate character system, which present a stimulating intellectual challenge.

The primary motivation behind my desire to learn Mandarin is its immense significance in the global business landscape. China’s economic prominence makes Mandarin an invaluable asset in international commerce. Additionally, I’m captivated by Chinese philosophy and literature, and I aspire to delve into these subjects in their original language.

To embark on this linguistic journey, I’ve devised a comprehensive strategy. I plan to enroll in an intensive Mandarin course at a reputable language institute, supplementing this with daily practice using cutting-edge language learning apps. I also intend to immerse myself in Chinese media, including podcasts, news broadcasts, and films, to enhance my listening skills. Furthermore, I aim to arrange a language exchange partnership with a native Mandarin speaker to hone my conversational abilities.

Mastering Mandarin would undoubtedly yield numerous benefits in my future endeavors. Professionally, it could dramatically expand my career prospects, particularly in multinational corporations or diplomatic services. On a personal level, it would enable me to forge deeper connections with Mandarin speakers worldwide and gain profound insights into Chinese culture. Ultimately, acquiring this language would not only broaden my horizons but also equip me with a valuable skill in our increasingly interconnected world.”

Language learning apps displaying Chinese characters

Follow-up questions:

1. How long do you think it will take you to become fluent in this language?
2. What challenges do you anticipate in learning this language?

Sample answers (Band 8-9):

1. “Achieving fluency in Mandarin is undoubtedly a long-term commitment. Given its complexity, particularly for native English speakers, I anticipate it could take anywhere from 3 to 5 years of dedicated study to reach a high level of proficiency. However, I believe that with consistent effort and immersive practice, I could attain conversational fluency within 18 months to 2 years. It’s crucial to remember that language learning is a continuous process, and there’s always room for improvement even after reaching fluency.”

2. “Learning Mandarin presents several unique challenges. Firstly, mastering the tonal system is likely to be a significant hurdle, as tones are crucial for meaning but don’t exist in English. Secondly, the character-based writing system requires extensive memorization and practice. Additionally, the vast differences in grammar structure between English and Mandarin might prove challenging. However, I view these challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Overcoming them will not only improve my language skills but also enhance my cognitive abilities and cultural understanding.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to language learning. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

1. How do you think technology has changed language learning?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has revolutionized language learning in numerous ways. Firstly, it has made learning more accessible and convenient through mobile apps and online platforms, allowing people to study anytime, anywhere. Secondly, technologies like AI-powered chatbots and virtual reality have created immersive learning experiences that were previously impossible. These tools provide instant feedback and personalized learning paths, making the process more efficient. Moreover, technology has facilitated global connections, enabling language learners to practice with native speakers through video calls and language exchange websites. However, it’s important to note that while technology offers many advantages, it shouldn’t completely replace human interaction and traditional learning methods, as these still play a crucial role in language acquisition.”

2. Do you think it’s better to learn a language in a classroom or through immersion in a country where it’s spoken?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Both methods have their merits, and the ideal approach often depends on individual learning styles and circumstances. Classroom learning provides a structured environment with systematic instruction on grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. It offers the advantage of having an expert teacher to guide learners and correct mistakes. On the other hand, immersion in a country where the language is spoken offers unparalleled exposure to authentic language use and cultural context. It forces learners to use the language in real-life situations, which can accelerate fluency and improve listening comprehension dramatically. In my opinion, the most effective approach would be a combination of both methods. Starting with classroom instruction to build a solid foundation, followed by immersion to refine skills and gain cultural insights, would likely yield the best results. This balanced approach ensures both accuracy and fluency while providing a deep understanding of the language in its cultural context.”

Language immersion in a classroom setting

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To enhance your Speaking performance, incorporate these sophisticated terms and expressions:

1. Linguistic diversity /lɪŋˈɡwɪstɪk daɪˈvɜːrsəti/ (noun): The variety of languages spoken in a specific area or globally.
   Example: “The linguistic diversity of India is truly remarkable, with hundreds of languages spoken across the country.”

2. Cultural nuances /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈnjuːɑːnsɪz/ (noun phrase): Subtle aspects of a culture that are difficult to understand without deep knowledge.
   Example: “Learning a language helps you grasp the cultural nuances that are often lost in translation.”

3. Cognitive benefits /ˈkɒɡnətɪv ˈbenɪfɪts/ (noun phrase): Advantages related to mental processes such as thinking and memory.
   Example: “The cognitive benefits of bilingualism include improved problem-solving skills and delayed onset of dementia.”

4. Language acquisition /ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ ˌækwɪˈzɪʃən/ (noun phrase): The process of learning a new language.
   Example: “Chomsky’s theories on language acquisition have greatly influenced teaching methodologies.”

5. Idiomatic expressions /ˌɪdiəˈmætɪk ɪkˈspreʃənz/ (noun phrase): Phrases whose meanings cannot be deduced from the individual words.
   Example: “Mastering idiomatic expressions is crucial for sounding natural in a foreign language.”

Remember to use these terms contextually and avoid overusing them, as natural speech is key to a high score in IELTS Speaking.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a language you’d like to learn:

1. Prepare diverse reasons: Think beyond common motivations. Include personal, professional, and cultural reasons for learning the language.

2. Use specific examples: Instead of general statements, provide concrete examples of how you plan to learn or use the language.

3. Show enthusiasm: Demonstrate genuine interest in the language and its associated culture. This passion can positively influence your fluency and vocabulary use.

4. Practice coherent structuring: Organize your thoughts logically, using discourse markers to connect ideas smoothly.

5. Expand your vocabulary: Incorporate language-specific terms (e.g., “tonal language,” “character-based writing system”) to showcase your knowledge.

6. Reflect on broader implications: In Part 3, consider the wider impact of language learning on society, education, and global communication.

By following these tips and consistently practicing, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle this topic and similar ones in your IELTS Speaking test.

For more guidance on excelling in different aspects of the IELTS Speaking test, you might find it helpful to explore topics like describing a memorable experience during a nature walk or describing an event you organized. These resources can provide additional insights into effective speaking strategies and vocabulary usage across various subjects.